2018 BCYF Summer Grants released for local organizations

Mayor Martin J. Walsh and Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) have announced the release of the 2018 BCYF Summer Grants Request for Proposal (RFP). Applicants may apply for a 2018 BCYF Summer Grant of up to $5,000 to support fun, safe, enriching youth programming this summer. These grants will increase both the number and variety of programs serving youth, and will ensure that youth across the City have access to activities and opportunities this summer.

"Thousands of Boston's young people will have a great summer thanks to the agencies the BCYF Summer Grant supports," said Mayor Walsh. "I'm pleased to be able to offer this grant to support the innovative and engaging programming provided by our non-profit partners during the summer months."

"Through our non-profit partners, Boston youth will benefit from a greater selection enrichment opportunities that will promote healthier and happier Boston youth," said Mayor's Office of Health and Human Services Chief, Marty Martinez. "Thanks to the BCYF Summer Grant Program, youth from Mattapan to East Boston will have great opportunities to participate in quality youth programming throughout the summer."

The grants range from $2,000 to $5,000 and will support summer programs in Boston neighborhoods. Ages to be served must range from 6-18 and may include young adults up to age 21. Programs must operate between July 11 and August 31. Last year, almost half of the 82 programs that were awarded funding had a sports, recreation, fitness or health-related focus, while others were art-based, educational or community and civic engagement opportunities.

"Even though BCYF offers hundreds of summer programs, we rely on our non-profit partners to join us in keeping Boston's youth happy, healthy and safe during the summer," said William Morales, Commissioner of BCYF. "I can't wait to review the variety of applications we will receive from all across the City."

"Thanks to the BCYF Summer Grant, Boston Youth Wrestling's Coaches in Training Program has thrived the last few summers," said Bior Guigni, Program Director. "Our youth spend the summer developing crucial leadership and mentoring skills, and in turn, they run programs throughout the city that are fun and safe for others to enjoy. I look forward to this opportunity every summer and am thankful for the support of the BCYF Summer Grant."

The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. on Friday, May 18th. For more information including the RFP, please visit Boston.Gov/BCYF.